Re: Finish for pepper mills?

I would suggest lacquer. First rub in a coat of lacquer sanding sealer to seal the end grain pores. Then shoot several coats of high gloss lacquer. Finally, polish with Micromesh starting with 1500 grit and going up to 12000 grit.

Re: Finish for pepper mills?

Larry, I don't normally use wax of any type on items that are going to be handled often. Wax will wear away and become necessary to recoat. I like the laquer as already mentioned. If you don't have the sanding capability suggested, I use a crumpled up brown paper bag. That becomes a very good finish sanding/buffing and not pricey. Lucky are those who receive these gifts and they will be quite pleased.

Re: Finish for pepper mills?

Sanding up to 1000 grit may be too fine to ensure a proper bond between the finished wood and the lacquer. I would recommend you stop at 400 to 600.

Spray on the lacquer, (see my post about "Rattle cans"), then after drying for a couple days, and while still on the lathe, rub out the surface with 0000 steel wool and TreWax and polish with a soft cotton cloth.

Re: Finish for pepper mills?

So the consensus seems to be lacquer. While I am pretty good with liquor, I am not so great with lacquer. My spraying technique could use a little practice. I do have a compressor, and a Home Depot-type spray gun, but I have never really used it.

I would hate to screw up my beautiful maple with a bad finish, but maybe I will try with the first mill at least.

I did read the rattle can thread, so maybe I will try it. Or I will completely ignore the advise of people that know better than I, and still go with a rub-on finish. I will know more after coffee.